Trump plans rare 'power play' in red state: 'Some of those candidates are in trouble'
President Donald Trump and Republican Party leaders have decided to "host a GOP midterm twist" with a convention in Dallas, The Dallas Morning News reported.
The "Texas power play" would bring a rare midterm rally to deep-blue Dallas in an attempt to garner voter support ahead of the midterms this fall. The unprecedented move would rely on "Texas money and muscle" to bring together Republicans in hopes to secure victories for GOP candidates.
"Holding conventions every two years is routine for state parties, including Texas. National political conventions, by contrast, are typically reserved for presidential cycles," according to The Dallas Morning News.
No official date has been set yet, but Republicans view the location as a "low-risk pilot" for the potential event.
"A midterm gathering headlined by the president would break from that model, potentially igniting a campaign sprint to the general election while also serving as a traditional celebration of the GOP," the outlet reported. "While no final decision has been announced on whether Republicans will go forward with their mini-convention idea, Texas offers a natural fit, as it is critical for the financial and political health of the party."
Republicans view Dallas, a top-five media market, as a key location to influence upcoming elections and convince voters as they try to unite business conservatives in the state with MAGA followers. The location — one of the bluest counties in the Lone Star State — was expected to be met with Democratic counter-protests.
"The movement in some states to redraw congressional boundaries started last year in Texas when it approved a new map to increase the GOP’s House majority. A convention could highlight the five races the party hopes to win here. Some of those candidates are in trouble," according to The Dallas Morning News.
